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Difficulty: MediumPedestrian Crossings

A pedestrian presses the control button at a Pelican crossing while the traffic lights are showing green. In what chronological sequence will the traffic light signals be displayed to an approaching driver from the moment the green phase ends?

  1. 1Steady amber light
  2. 2Steady red light
  3. 3Flashing amber light
  4. 4Steady green light

Answer

Steady amber light → Steady red light → Flashing amber light → Steady green light
According to the UK Highway Code (Rule 196), a Pelican crossing signal cycle follows the strict order of steady amber (stop if safe), steady red (stop), flashing amber (give way to pedestrians on the crossing; proceed if clear), and finally steady green (proceed if clear).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the initial transition after the steady green phase ends.
Steady amber light is displayed.
When activated, the signal first changes from green to steady amber to instruct drivers to stop unless they have already crossed the line or are too close to stop safely.
2
Identify the mandatory stop phase.
Steady red light is displayed.
The steady red light follows steady amber, giving pedestrians a safe green crossing signal while all vehicular traffic must remain stationary.
3
Identify the unique give-way transition phase of a Pelican crossing.
Flashing amber light is displayed.
Unlike standard traffic lights or Puffin crossings, a Pelican crossing transitions from red directly to flashing amber, allowing drivers to move forward only if the crossing is completely clear of pedestrians.
4
Identify the signal restoring normal flow.
Steady green light is displayed.
Once the flashing amber phase ends, the signal turns to steady green, permitting vehicular traffic to proceed if the road ahead is clear.

Key Concept

Pelican crossing traffic light sequence and the operational meaning of the flashing amber signal under UK Highway Code Rule 196.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Pedestrian Crossings

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